With traffic fatalities exceeding 600 in Colorado last year, the Colorado State Patrol plans to increase its presence along the roadways. 

Colorado drivers traveled 11% fewer miles in 2020 — but they drove faster. At the end of the year, officials found that excess speed was the top factor in fatal accidents. 

“The fact that evidence is lining up to show that here were fewer cars on the road, yet the same amount of fatalities on our roadways, should be alarming to us all,” said CSP Chief Matthew Packard.

“Some of us forget the importance of responsibility we take on as drivers as we become caught in the routine of driving. The Colorado State Patrol wants our presence to serve as a reminder to drive with care and proper speed.”

Officials say less traffic lets drivers “ignore posted speed limits, and some chose to drive recklessly.”

CSP officials said the largest number of speeding charges were in El Paso, Douglas, Jefferson, Arapahoe and Eagle counties. 

Distracted driving and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs rounded out the top three factors for fatal accidents, CSP officials said.

In an attempt to save lives along the roadways CSP will have a greater presence felt by motorists.

“Our primary focus has and walls will be creating a safe and secure environment on our highways, roads, and neighborhood streets,” said Packard. 

“Even when there are unexpected needs of civil unrest, unprecedented wildfires, and shifting dynamics of a pandemic — our organization maintains and then returns stronger to the core duties of protecting life and property on Colorado’s roadways.”

CSP did not specify how many additional troopers would be on the roadways each day.